Open Files

[Gambler]

As a fmp "newbie", I don't really know where else to post this question, so I'll try it here.

I've noticed in a number of sample fmp applications that I've looked at, that related files are usually left open and minimized at the bottom of the window.

My question is why are they left open? Is that a fmp requirement??

Isn't it possible to perform a lookup to a related table (retreive data) without opening that table and keeping it open to retreive the data.

Same question for modifying/appending or posting data to a table.

Isn'tkeeping these other files open all the time a potential security issue and a drain on Windows (system) resources?

Isn't fmp able to perform these tasks from a script that intuitively knows to open, perform function and close file (table) without remaining constantly open?

Please be patient with me while I try to learn and understand fmp.

Thank you.

[ March 27, 2002, 06:59 AM: Message edited by: BarryZ ]

[LiveOak]

FM will automatically open the needed files, but doesn't then close them. Very few resources are involved since FM is a disk based database program. Files must be open to access data in them. It's like trying to edit a letter in MS Word without opening it.

It does improve the security of FM a lot if you don't open the files, better yet if you don't keep them on your computer! Actually, I don't think it makes a difference, a determined attack on a poorly designed database can open the needed files.

You can close files under script control, the trade-off is the time it takes to open them to perform an operation which needs them. FM will automatically open files that are required for the current screen display.

It's kind of like the light in your refrigerator, don't worry about what happens after you close the door.

-bd